New medical cannabis and pharmaceutical cannabinoid policy effective September 1
 
Access to safe, effective treatment is an important part of an injured worker’s recovery. WCB-Alberta will consider the approval of medical cannabis for the medically-necessary treatment of work-related injuries in some specific cases.
 
WCB now has a new policy on medical cannabis and pharmaceutical cannabinoids (Policy 04-06, Part II, Application 6 and Addendum A). Policy information is available on WCB’s website. Here are some highlights:
  • The new policy applies to all requests for coverage including extension requests for existing coverage. WCB will no longer provide coverage for medical cannabis under the policy for experimental, non-standard treatment (Policy 04-06, Part II, Application 1, Question 11).
  • Coverage is limited to the designated conditions listed in the policy.
  • There are limits on dose (no more than 3 g/day; maximum THC content of 9%).
  • The policy includes specific worker and physician responsibilities, including a treatment agreement that must be in place to approve coverage.
  • The policy requires updated medical reporting confirming the worker continues to meet policy criteria (every three months).
Refer to WCB’s physicians’ guide to authorizing cannabinoids for medical purposes when considering prescribing or authorizing pharmaceutical cannabinoids or medical cannabis. If you have any questions, please call WCB’s physician help line at 1-855-498-4919.
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